Policy regulations and global standards: A perspective on sustainable computing
Gabriel Ayodeji Ogunmola, Vikas Kumar
Abstract
Digital technologies are increasingly becoming central to climate strategies and international development, and with that growth comes additional energy demand and material environmental footprints. As such, it is important to apply regulatory arrangements with accordingly robust governance responses. This paper outlines the international sustainability frameworks ISO standards, the EU Green Deal, UN Sustainable Development Goals and how national and regional governments are putting these ambitions into practice through command-and-control regulations, market-based approaches, and sectoral contexts. It also highlights Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks and corporate sustainability reporting in the digital space. It centers on the ethical implications of computing sustainability including environmental justice, data equity, and socio-spatial dimensions of digital infrastructure. By examining global policy examples, empirical work, and theories relating to justice, the essential gaps relating to implementation, accountability, and equitable access have been identified. Policy recommendations in supporting the improved governance of digital sustainability in national carbon accounting, circular procurement, and local-community-centered digital transitions have been given. Overall, this paper gives a multifaceted mapping of governance related to sustainable computing, while simultaneously calling for more inclusive, adaptive, and accountable policy frameworks.